Delaware County – The Delaware Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol is investigating a fatal traffic crash that occurred on Thursday, October 14, 2021 at approximately 11:36 PM, on U.S. Route 23, at the intersection of Olentangy Meadows Drive, in Orange Township.
Leo Bernat, age 66, of Columbus, Ohio, was operating a 2015 Toyota Highlander, northbound on U.S Route 23.Andrew Nowicki, age 37, of Pickerington, Ohio, was operating a 2018 Box Truck northbound bound on U.S Route 23. Russell Stover, age 31, was walking westbound in the northbound lanes of U.S. Route 23.
Mr. Stover walked into the northbound traffic lanes and was struck by both vehicles. Mr. Stover was not wearing reflective clothing at the time of the crash. Both vehicles stopped after striking Mr. Stover.
Mr. Stover was pronounced deceased at the scene. Mr. Bernat and Mr. Nowicki were not injured. Alcohol and drugs are suspected to be a factor in this crash.
The Ohio State Highway Patrol was assisted on scene by Orange Township EMS and Delaware County Sheriff’s Office.
The traffic crash remains under investigation by the Delaware Post of the Ohio State Highway Patrol.